Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheena LeMay-Nelssen.
Hi Sheena, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my photography business in 2013 while pregnant with my first daughter. I had graduated from two colleges the year before and had turned an internship with a NJHS hockey team into a photography job. Running my own business allowed me a flexible schedule with a new baby and made it easier when we moved to Texas in 2015. I had been making and sewing all kids of baby products for my daughter since she was born and posting them on social media that at some point, friends started asking for things. In 2016 I started Stitching Star Designs where I sold baby products like baby blankets, burp rags, stuffed animals and more. As my daughter was growing, I started making dresses for her and her dolls, hair things and vinyl for her water bottles. In 2017 my second daughter was born so I was running both my businesses as well as raising 2 girls. When covid hit in 2020, I made over 3000 masks most of which were given away for free to those in need. I started making bath bombs, lotion bars and other herbal products. When there was a sub shortage at my daughter’s elementary school I decided to be a substitute in 2022. I loved it so much that the following year I became a paraprofessional. I started having a nagging feeling I should become a teacher and so while I was a para I went and got my alternative certification. In 2023 I became a middle school art and principles of audio video production teacher.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been smooth at all. My mom unexpectedly passed away in 2006, my dad unexpectedly passed away in 2018, my husband and I moved to Texas in 2015 with our oldest daughter and moved away from all family. I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2018 and ehlers danlos syndrome 2021.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a photographer and I’ve done most types of photography. Sports photography and photojournalism are my favorites.
I sew, make things like vinyl with my Cricut, make jewelry, bath bombs, lotion bars, sugar scrubs, hair things and more.
I think what sets me apart is I do so many things. I never stick to one speciality and I’m always willing to try something new.
I am most proud of teaching my skills to others. Not only do I teach my daughters but I’ve been a girl scout troop leader and I teach these skills to middle schoolers.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I always credit being from the Midwest as helping me talk with others because I really can talk to anyone about anything. I also say ADHD is my superpower. I dont think I would be as skilled or as interested in learning so many things if it wasnt for my need to hyperfocus and high energy. I tell others to be confident even if you dont feel it. Don’t be afraid to try new things.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/virgoimmen
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/stitchingstar
